Nuclear Power Stations (Depreciation Policy)

HC Deb 20 December 1966 vol 738 c1170

37. Mr. Webster

asked the Minister of Power whether he will increase the period of amortisation of nuclear power stations to 30 years.

Dr. Bray

The Central Electricity Generating Board decides its own depreciation policy, and regards a 20-year period as appropriate for its own nuclear stations. My right hon. Friend sees no reason to intervene.

Mr. Webster

In view of the fact that the American nuclear power stations are built on a 30-year amortisation period, are we not at a very considerable disadvantage when we try to export in competition with them?

Dr. Bray

There is no reason to believe that the A.G.R. stations will have a shorter life than those using competing systems such as the American systems to which the hon. Gentleman has referred. Indeed, rather the opposite is the case.